Guyana’s Golden Arrowhead is flying high in Grenada as the nation’s young athletes deliver standout performances at the 53rd CARIFTA Games, being held from April 4 to April 6, 2026, igniting pride and unity among supporters at home and across the diaspora.
In a show of national support, the Youth For Change (YFC) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) rallied behind the team, celebrating the athletes’ achievements and reaffirming confidence in their ability to excel on the regional stage.
“Our GOLDEN ARROWHEAD IS SOARING IN GRENADA!” the organisations declared, adding that, “In a powerful display of unity, the Youth For Change (YFC) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) joined forces today to send a clear message to our competitors: We stand 100% behind our team.”
Competing at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium, Team Guyana has made a strong impression, with multiple podium finishes and record-breaking performances already secured.
Among the standout athletes is Tianna Springer, who captured Guyana’s first gold medal in the Girls Under-20 400 metres, while Malachi Austin followed with another gold in the Boys Under-20 400 metres. The mixed 4×400 metres relay team—comprising Tishawn Easton, Akeela Dover, Malachi Austin and Tianna Springer—delivered a historic performance, breaking the CARIFTA record with an impressive time of 3:20.79.
Other notable achievements include Jermaine Shepherd’s silver medal in the Boys Under-17 1500 metres and Javon Roberts’ bronze medal in the Boys Under-20 1500 metres.
“Our young champions are making us PROUD at the 53rd CARIFTA Games 2026 in Grenada! From the starting point at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium, Team Guyana has been truly unstoppable, proving time and again that we are indeed One People, One Nation, One Destiny.”
The CARIFTA Games, first held in 1972, are the region’s premier junior athletics competition, designed to foster unity and develop young sporting talent across the Caribbean. The games are rooted in the Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA), established in 1965 by Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago under the Dickenson Bay Agreement.
That regional integration movement was led by prominent Caribbean figures including Errol Barrow of Barbados, Forbes Burnham of Guyana, Eric Williams of Trinidad and Tobago, and Vere Cornwall Bird Sr. of Antigua, who envisioned greater cooperation and development among Caribbean nations.
Today, the CARIFTA Games stand as a symbol of that vision—uniting Caribbean youth through sport while providing a pathway to international excellence.
The team’s success has been attributed in part to the leadership of manager Niall Stanton and the dedication of the coaching staff, guiding a 24-member squad that continues to showcase Guyanese talent and determination.
Supporters have also been urged to continue rallying behind the athletes as they pursue further success.
“To our athletes: Whether we’re at home in the 592 or watching from the diaspora, the YFC, the AFC, and the entire nation are standing 100% behind you! Keep pushing, keep soaring, and bring home the many glory!”
As the games continue, Guyana’s athletes remain focused on adding to their medal tally, carrying with them the hopes and pride of a nation united in celebration of their achievements
